AN INSPIRATIONAL nursery school head teacher, recognised both nationally and internationally for her work with young children and families, was given a Royal send-off when she retired.

Paddy Beels, 69, took up her post at Wingate Community Nursery School in Wingate, east Durham, in 1989. Recognising the school needed replacing, she helped secure funding for a new building which opened in 1992.

She then spearheaded fundraising to build a Family Centre in the grounds in 1998 - eight years ago, ahead of a government initiative.

Mrs Beels won a National Teaching Award in the Primary Category in 1999, which led to her receiving the OBE for services to education. She also achieved an 18-year run of outstanding Ofsted reports.

Assistant head teacher Becky Wood, who is taking over the nursery school in the new academic year, said: “She’s an inspirational leader who has grown and nurtured the most skilful team of people over the years, who continue to enrich the lives of all our children.

“I have had the greatest honour of working alongside someone who I consider to be the most extraordinary person, leader, teacher and best friend for 16 years.”

Although retiring, Mrs Beels is going to stay on as a community governor and will also continue to be part of a training and research base attached to the primary school, which delivers training nationwide.

Pupils past and present attended the farewell event, at which Mrs Beels was given a number of gifts, including an iPad, silver bracelet, leather journal and a contribution toward buying a puppy.